Its extracellular matrix consists mostly of thin collagen fibers and fundamental extracellular matrix (that is, amorphous, non-fibrillar matrix).
As it lacks large amounst of collagen, the loose connective tissue cannot withstand intense mechanical pressure and traction. On the other hand, it has the advantage of being very flexible. As it supports lining and glandular epithelia, blood vessels and nerves it allows restricted movement of epithelia adapted to the mption of organs without damaging these epithelia. Furthermore, it allows the relative ease of diffusion of liquids and gases between blood vessels and cells of other tissues providing them with nutrients and oxygen.
The image shows the loose connective tissue that fills the villi of the small intestines. The villi move continuously during intestinal contractions. This loose connective tissue supports the epithelium of the villi, which is responsible for much of the absorption of nutrients from the intestinal lumen. Ovserve the simple columnar intestinal epithelium that covers this villus. The loose connective tissue inside the villus is composed of many cells and collagen fibers.
Intestinal villus – cross section. Staining: HE. Magnification: medium.
